Fox Chapel’s Carson Kittsley shakes off early hiccup at Oakmont to make states

By: Josh Rizzo
Saturday, October 12, 2024 | 11:01 AM

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There had to be some creeping doubt from Fox Chapel sophomore Carson Kittsley about his chances of reaching the PIAA Class 3A boys golf championships. But you couldn’t see it in his face or body language.

Kittsley simply kept playing his style of golf. After opening the WPIAL Class 3A championships at Oakmont Country Club with a triple bogey, Kittsley settled in to finish with a 3-over par 77 to end up in a tie for fourth place with North Allegheny’s Chris Hoffman.

“I didn’t let that get to me,” Kittsley said. “It’s Oakmont. It’s going to happen.”

Kittsley’s score allowed him to qualify for the PIAA championships Oct. 20-21 at the Penn State White Course. Kittsley missed out on qualifying as a freshman after he lost in the first hole of a playoff.

Fox Chapel boys golf coach Joe Farrell said Kittsley never shows emotion on the course.

“It’s funny to watch Carson battle through adversity,” Farrell said. “He never shows any emotion on a birdie or a triple. His preparation is good and he has a good memory. He will take a lot away from how he played at WPIALs.”

Kittsley said he had to develop his mentality over time. Staying cool wasn’t always easy during tournaments. But as his skills improved, Kittsley found himself able to stay even mentally a lot easier.

“All this experience helps make me a different player,” Kittsley said. “My dad has helped me with that.”

Peters Township’s Colton Lusk won the WPIAL title by shooting a 4-under par 67. Matthew Begg and David DiGregory also competed for Fox Chapel, finishing in 20th and 32nd place, respectively.

Kittsley is fortunate to have a good support system with his teammates. His dad also played Division I golf.

When things got tough, Kittsley said he leaned on the advice he’s been given.

“Some of my thoughts were that I had to keep playing my own game,” Kittsley said. “I just had to focus on my game.”

Fox Chapel won its section in team play as well. The Foxes were scheduled to compete in the WPIAL team playoffs Oct. 10, but the results were too late for this edition.

Kittsley is looking forward to playing in State College.

“I’ve played the Blue Course at Penn State before, but I’ve never played the White Course,” Kittsley said. “I’m looking forward to the experience.”

Tags: Fox Chapel